Bridges upgrade aims to make transport safer

The federal government recently announced it would fund the replacement or upgrade of 186 bridges across Australia.

Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Darren Chester said $162.53 million would be provided to fund round three of the Bridges Renewal Program.

“The bridges renewal program gives local, state and territory governments the support they need to replace and upgrade key bridges,” Chester said.

“This new funding is in addition to the $216 million already committed under the first two rounds of the program, which has seen 201 bridge projects being upgraded or completed.

“The upgrade of these bridges will improve driving conditions for residents and local freight operators, by delivering safer and more productive bridges that are fit-for purpose.

“The Bridges Renewal Program forms part of our $75 billion infrastructure investment plan, which is delivering the infrastructure Australia needs to support metropolitan and regional areas, and to remain competitive in a global market.

“The financial commitment in this round will be matched by successful proponents that will deliver a total investment of at least $345 million towards upgrading bridges.”

“To allow for a wider distribution of projects, the government's contribution under Round Three has been limited to $5 million per project.

“The government has identified bridge upgrades and replacements as a national priority and committed $420 million over five years from 2015–16 to 2020–21, with an ongoing commitment of $60 million each year thereafter.”